Open Carrying in New York

Last updated October 25, 2016.

New York prohibits the possession of a “loaded” handgun outside of the home or place of business without a carry license.1 The state also prohibits any person from possessing a “loaded” short-barreled shotgun or rifle or an assault weapon outside of his or her home or place of business.2 The prohibition on possessing an assault weapon extends to unloaded assault weapons.3 The term “loaded firearm” includes any firearm possessed by a person who also possesses any ammunition which may be discharged by the firearm, whether the firearm is loaded or unloaded.4 New York does not issue licenses to carry handguns openly.5

New York has no law restricting the open carrying of long guns in public.